Stage 1: Rear-Facing Infant or Child Seat

Seat Installation Check

The seat does not move more than 1 inch side to side or forward at the belt path.

There are no unregulated aftermarket products such as head positioners, bunting bags, harness covers, etc.

Child Harness Check

The harness straps begin at or below the child’s shoulders

You can’t pinch any excess harness strap at the child's collarbone

The chest clip is flat against the chest and in line with the child’s armpits

There are no twists or folds in the harness straps

Tips

Most babies outgrow their infant bucket seat before they are ready to move to stage 2 (forward facing). When your child outgrows the maximum height or weight of his/her infant seat, you will likely require a convertible rear-facing seat until your child is ready to face forward. Many seats can rear face a child up to 18kg (40lbs) or more.

When is My Child Ready for Stage 2?

For his/her safety, your child should stay rear-facing as long as possible. Best practice is to remain rear facing to the limits of the seat. (CPSAC, 2015)